But I Am Here (Redline Performing Arts)

The Color Purple Based on the novel by Alice Walker Book by Marsha Norman

Music and Lyrics by Brenda Russell, Allee Willis, Stephen Bray Directed by Alonzo Ramont and Tyler Tate A review by Kate Barry

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During his curtain speech for Saturday nights The Color Purple, Artistic Director Alonzo Ramont stated Redline Performing Arts current season is a tribute to black women. Simply put: “these stories are valid, these stories are important.” The Color Purple in partnership with Actors Theater of Louisville is a gorgeous re- telling of a harsh story that is both tragic and resilient.

The Color Purple’s legacy outshines its story. The popular novel has been turned into this musical as well as two movie adaptations. Most notably, the star studded 1985 movie was robbed of a Best Picture Oscar. But I digress. The need for remakes and adaptations further indicate how near and dear this story is to so many. At the center of the story is young Celie, a poor African American teenager who suffers heavy sexual, emotional and physical abuse by her father and husband; a brutal story that ends with love and joy.

The musical numbers in this version of The Color Purple are exquisite in execution of choreography and beautiful vocals. “Mysterious Ways” brings the warm welcome of a church choir while “Hell No!” and “Push the button” tap into energetic dance numbers that are lively and wildly entertaining. The strong ensemble bring their best moves to Harpo’s Juke Joint as well as a tap number celebrating “Miss Celie’s Pants” in act two. Tasha Wilson Hatchett, Tyler Tate and Stephanie Collins provide additional flair as a Church Lady Greek chorus of sorts. These three do well to comment, critique and commensurate on the events of Celie’s life with great blending of vocals.

Celie is an ordinary girl with simple dreams and wishes. Her coming of age story is one of courage as she escapes the abusive marriage.  In this production, the lead characters are double cast. I was fortunate to see the Black Cast. Dedra Reid’s Celie sees the world with wide eyed innocence that is shaped through hopes of seeing her sister Nettie (a strong radiant performance by RoDijett Jones) again and the confidence of Shug Avery (played with cool flirtation by Cicily Bullard). Reid’s performance hits every emotional beat to perfection. Her performance of “I am here” is heart breaking and praise worthy as Celie is able to live a life on her terms. Reid and Bullard rendition of “What about Love” and its reprisal capture the mood of bond between women and sisterhood.

Celie’s struggles come at the hand of Mister, played scathingly by Derick Palmer. It’s difficult to find understanding for a character like Mister but Palmer approaches the task with great assurance. Tony Reimonenq and LaShondra Hood round out the cast as Harpo and Sophia, respectively. Hood’s Sophia is full of passion with a fight in her that never runs low, a presence that plays well next to Reimonenq’s gawky and eager to impress- Harpo.

Celie’s story is not an easy one to watch. She experiences physical assault, incest, rape and verbal abuse. In these divided times, a musical like The Color Purple is a reminder of strength and hope in the darkest of times.

The Color Purple Redline Performing Arts November 15-18, 21-24 Actors Theater/Pamela Brown Theater 316 West Main St Louisville KY 40243 https://www.redlineperformingarts.com/